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Dixon
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Do I need to know the formula for surface area of a pyramid? 17 Apr 2013, 18:17
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Or is it beyond the scope of GMAT Quant?

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Do I need to know the formula for surface area of a pyramid? 17 Apr 2013, 20:22
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Good question. I think only GMAC can tell you that. That being said its better to prepare ourselves with the popular pyramid model which is the square base and right pyramid. This is because the figure is basically a combination of square and triangle concepts. The surface area concept can be easily deduced. You can start with that and only if you have mastered all other concepts cold and have time you can build your knowledge on other kinds of pyramids.

Hope this helps

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Do I need to know the formula for surface area of a pyramid? 17 Apr 2013, 23:54
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No. Just no.

'Geometry is limited primarily to measurement and intuitive geometry or spatial visualization. Extensive knowledge of theorems and the ability to construct proofs, skills that are usually developed in a formal geometry course, are not tested. The topics included in this section are the following:
1. Lines
2. intersecting Lines and Angles
3. Perpendicular lines
4. Parallel Lines
5. Polygons (Convex)
6. Triangles
7. Quadrilaterals
8. Circles
9. Rectangular Solids and Cylinders
10. Coordinate Geometry'

This is from the Official Guide, hope this helps
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Do I need to know the formula for surface area of a pyramid? 19 Apr 2013, 09:35
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Zarrolou
No. Just no.

'Geometry is limited primarily to measurement and intuitive geometry or spatial visualization. Extensive knowledge of theorems and the ability to construct proofs, skills that are usually developed in a formal geometry course, are not tested. The topics included in this section are the following:
1. Lines
2. intersecting Lines and Angles
3. Perpendicular lines
4. Parallel Lines
5. Polygons (Convex)
6. Triangles
7. Quadrilaterals
8. Circles
9. Rectangular Solids and Cylinders
10. Coordinate Geometry'

This is from the Official Guide, hope this helps
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Exactly. The only three shapes you need to know are the cylinder, the cube and a rectangular box. Seeing as how a cube is a special case of a rectangular box, you don't need to memorize its equations unless you're just looking to save time, as they are the same as the general case rectangular solid.

If a different 3D shape is asked of you on the GMAT, the relevant volume formula will be provided for you. Of course, that doesn't mean that you just apply the formula blindly without considering the logic of it, this is the GMAT. Typical example would be the exam giving you the equation for the volume of a pyramid, and then asking you a question that only encompasses half that volume.

Hope this helps!
-Ron

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